Met Police chief defends progress but admits toxic behaviour persists underground

United Kingdom-Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley has described the behaviour uncovered by a BBC Panorama investigation as “completely reprehensible” and said he wants those involved “off the payroll”.

Speaking to BBC London, Rowley said the force was “better than three years ago” and that he was “proud” of the progress made. But he admitted there is still “cancer” to be removed, acknowledging that misconduct has been driven “underground” by ongoing reforms.

The Panorama programme revealed officers making sexualised remarks to colleagues and expressing racist views about immigrants and Muslims. Nine officers and one staff member have been suspended, with two further officers taken off frontline duties.

Rowley rejected calls to resign, saying: “It’s the misogynists and racists frankly who want me out.”

The revelations come despite the Met’s pledge to root out “toxic behaviours” following the 2021 murder of Sarah Everard by a serving officer.

Political reaction

Conservatives at City Hall described the programme as “deeply concerning” and demanded “immediate action”.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the footage “shocking” and urged Rowley to be “very robust in his response”.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan said he was “disgusted and appalled” and accused the Met of letting Londoners down.